Traditional public relations education and emerging media skills training
Franklin College’s public relations education adapts quickly to provide students with the most relevant and marketable skills needed in the industry. Coursework blends foundational practices like writing and communication planning with emerging digital media and communications skills like multimedia storytelling, digital design and social media. The curriculum culminates as students prepare a professional portfolio – in print and digital formats – to showcase their breadth of experience and empower them to launch a rewarding career.
Immersive experiences and internships
In addition to unique department-led opportunities, every Franklin College public relations major completes at least one internship, though many students complete two or more. Previous students have interned with:
- PR agencies: Hirons, Borshoff, Dittoe Public Relations
- Sports teams: Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers
- Businesses: Kroger, consulting firms
- Government agencies: Office of the Mayor of Indianapolis, Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Department of Homeland Security
- Nonprofits: The Julian Center, Girls Inc.
In addition to internships, public relations majors frequently attend conferences, workshops and seminars to explore areas of personal interest and network with professionals. Former students attended a conference for women in advertising in New York City, studied French media in Paris and participated in a diversity workshop at the largest PR agency in the state.
Immersive experiences are also woven into coursework; in recent years public relations students have participated in community and national crisis drills, practicing crisis communications in real time as hypothetical disasters unfold.
